An "excellent" European single currency gives the lie to euro-critics, the foreign secretary said on Tuesday.

Launching a government charm offensive on Europe, Whitehall insiders have downplayed speculation that Jack Straw's tour of UK regions kicks off a campaign for euro membership.

But sending a clear signal that as things stand ministers are confident of meeting Gordon Brown's criteria for membership, Straw, a late convert to the lure of the euro, singled the new currency out for lavish praise.

"Given our economic dependence on the single market, a successful single currency has always in principle been in our interests," he said.

"Contrary to the predictions of the doomsayers, I am delighted to say that the euro has got off to an excellent start."

Ministers are hoping that British tourists will bring back happy holiday memories of the single currency and Straw later related his own positive vacation experience.

"I was very struck in conversation in small shops that people have just got on with the euro and that having the euro has not led to a crisis of self-confidence for the French," he said.

"They still feel French and are very proud of their national heritage."

The foreign secretary hopes an "intense debate" on euro membership will lead to public support. "I hope the public would vote yes because if there is a referendum it will be because the British cabinet and parliament will have decided to recommend entry."